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Thick smoke billowed above the Valero refinery in Port Arthur following a loud blast that shook windows across the area. Fortunately, no injuries occurred.
PORT ARTHUR, Texas — A significant explosion at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, sent a cloud of smoke into the sky and led officials to issue a shelter-in-place order for nearby communities on Monday evening.
Residents, including 12News viewers, reported hearing a loud boom that caused car windows to vibrate in Port Arthur, situated roughly 90 miles from Houston. Mayor Charlotte M. Moses confirmed that no injuries resulted from the explosion and advised those living on the city’s west side to remain indoors for safety.
“Yes, there was an explosion, but everything is under control and everyone is safe,” she assured. “Efforts are underway to extinguish the fire swiftly.”
Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens indicated that the explosion may have involved a heater unit. Meanwhile, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality was actively assessing air quality in the vicinity.
Port Arthur Police and Fire Departments advised residents on the west side of the city to shelter in place, according to an emergency alert. Authorities emphasized that no evacuations were ordered.
Interim Port Arthur Fire Chief Louie Havens said two engines were initially sent to the refinery and a hazmat team is being deployed to Valero. Havens confirmed there were no injuries or deaths reported.
The explosion comes amid a spike in gas prices driven by uncertainty over the global oil supply because of the Iran war.
The Valero Port Arthur Refinery is on the Texas Gulf coast and employs about 770 workers. It produces 435,000 barrels per day and processes heavy sour crude oil into gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, according to its website.
Valero did not immediately respond to an email or call from The Associated Press seeking comment.
> A doorbell camera captured the moment of the explosion:
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
